Information provision device, information provision system, information provision method and program

Abstract

To evaluate driving ability without imposing a burden on a driver and to suggest a more appropriate means of transportation.SOLUTION: An information provision device includes: an acquisition unit that acquires steering information regarding steering by a vehicle driver; a calculation unit that calculates a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle, and generates alternative transportation means information indicating alternative transportation means if the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value; and an output unit that outputs the alternative transportation means information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information providing device, an information providing system, an information providing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, with the advent of an aging society, the increase in traffic accidents caused by elderly people has become a major social problem. The increase in traffic accidents caused by elderly people is believed to be largely due to the decline in driving ability caused by aging. Conventionally, there have been driving ability assessment systems that assess the driving ability of vehicle drivers. For example, the automobile safe driving ability measurement system described in Patent Document 1 intermittently applies a load to the driver through audio output to distribute attention, calculates steering entropy values ​​that represent steering shake under loaded and unloaded conditions, and evaluates the driver's safe driving ability based on the difference in the shake evaluation values ​​calculated under loaded and unloaded conditions. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-174848 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the automobile safe driving ability measurement system described in Patent Document 1 requires imposing a burden on the driver in order to evaluate the driver's driving ability, which impedes driving. Furthermore, while the system evaluates the driver's driving ability, there is a problem in that even if an elderly person's driving ability is evaluated as being impaired, it is difficult for them to decide to surrender their license unless an alternative means of transportation is presented.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and one of its objects is to provide an information provision device, an information provision system, an information provision method, and a program that can evaluate driving ability without placing a burden on the driver and present more appropriate means of transportation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A vehicle control device, a vehicle control method, and a program according to another aspect of the present invention employ the following configuration. (1): An information providing device according to one aspect of the present invention, a section determination unit that acquires driving data and determines based on the driving data whether the section is a section where the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes its traveling direction; an acquisition unit that acquires steering information related to steering by a driver of a vehicle; The aforementioned The system includes a calculation unit that calculates the driver's driving ability value, a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and generates alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means if the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value, and an output unit that outputs the alternative transportation means information.

[0007] (2): In the above aspect (1), the alternative means of transportation is public transportation.

[0008] (3): An information providing device according to another aspect of the present invention includes an acquisition unit that acquires steering information related to steering by a driver of a vehicle, a calculation unit that calculates a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information, a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle, and generates alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means when the driver's driving ability value is lower than the recommended driving ability value, and an output unit that outputs the alternative transportation means information, The generation unit Calculated based on the driving history of the vehicle Information regarding the maintenance costs of said vehicle; ,before The alternative transportation information is generated based on the result of comparison with the information on the cost of using the alternative transportation.

[0009] (4): In any one of the above aspects (1) to (3), the calculation unit excludes steering information from the steering information in a section where driving skill has a large influence on the steering fluctuation.

[0010] (5) In the above aspect (4), the section where the influence of driving skill is large includes at least one of an S-curve section, a crank section, and a parking section.

[0011] (6): In any one of the above aspects (1) to (5), the calculation unit calculates the driving ability value based on steering information from a section of the steering information where cognitive function is significantly affected by steering fluctuations.

[0012] (7) In the above aspect (6), the section in which cognitive function is significantly affected is a right-turn section.

[0013] (8): An information providing device according to another aspect of the present invention, a section determination unit that acquires driving data and determines based on the driving data whether the section is a section where the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes its traveling direction; an acquisition unit that acquires steering information related to steering by a driver of a vehicle; The aforementioned The device includes a calculation unit that calculates the driver's driving ability value, a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and a recommended other vehicle driving ability value associated with at least one other vehicle other than the vehicle, and if the driver's driving ability value does not meet the recommended driving ability value, generates information indicating the other vehicle that meets the other vehicle recommended driving ability value, and an output unit that outputs the information indicating the other vehicle.

[0014] (9): In the above aspect (8), when there is no other vehicle that satisfies the other vehicle's recommended driving ability value, the generation unit generates alternative transportation information indicating an alternative transportation means, and the output unit outputs the alternative transportation information.

[0015] (10): An information providing system according to another aspect of the present invention is an information providing system having an information generating unit and an information output unit, wherein the information generating unit: a section determination unit that acquires driving data and determines based on the driving data whether the section is a section where the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes its traveling direction; an acquisition unit that acquires steering information related to steering by a driver of a vehicle; The aforementioned The information output unit includes an output unit that outputs the alternative transportation means information, and a calculation unit that calculates the driver's driving ability value, and a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and generates alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means if the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value.

[0016] (11): An information providing system according to another aspect of the present invention is an information providing system having an information generating unit and an information output unit, wherein the information generating unit: a section determination unit that acquires driving data and determines based on the driving data whether the section is a section where the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes its traveling direction; an acquisition unit that acquires steering information related to steering by a driver of a vehicle; The aforementioned The system includes a calculation unit that calculates the driver's driving ability value, and a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and a recommended other vehicle driving ability value associated with at least one other vehicle other than the vehicle, and if the driver's driving ability value does not meet the recommended driving ability value, generates information indicating the other vehicle that meets the other vehicle recommended driving ability value, and the information output unit includes an output unit that outputs information indicating the other vehicle.

[0017] (12): An information providing method according to another aspect of the present invention includes: Travel data is acquired, and it is determined based on the travel data whether or not the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes its traveling direction. Steering information relating to steering by a driver of a vehicle is acquired, and based on the steering information, The aforementioned The driving ability value of the driver is calculated, a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle is obtained, and if the driving ability value of the driver is less than the recommended driving ability value, alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means is generated and the alternative transportation means information is output.

[0018] (13): An information providing method according to another aspect of the present invention includes: Travel data is acquired, and it is determined based on the travel data whether or not the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes its traveling direction. Steering information relating to steering by a driver of a vehicle is acquired, and based on the steering information, The aforementioned The driving ability value of the driver is calculated, a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and a recommended driving ability value for another vehicle associated with at least one other vehicle other than the vehicle are obtained, and if the driving ability value of the driver does not meet the recommended driving ability value, information indicating the other vehicle that meets the recommended driving ability value for the other vehicle is generated and the information indicating the other vehicle is output.

[0019] (14): A program according to another aspect of the present invention is a program for executing the following on a computer: and acquiring driving data, determining based on the driving data whether or not the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes its direction of travel, Steering information relating to steering by a driver of a vehicle is acquired, and based on the steering information, The aforementionedThe driving ability value of the driver is calculated, a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle is obtained, and if the driving ability value of the driver is less than the recommended driving ability value, alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means is generated and the alternative transportation means information is output.

[0020] (15): A program according to another aspect of the present invention is a program for executing the following on a computer: and acquiring driving data, determining based on the driving data whether or not the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes its direction of travel, Steering information relating to steering by a driver of a vehicle is acquired, and based on the steering information, The aforementioned The system calculates the driver's driving ability value, obtains a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and a recommended driving ability value for another vehicle associated with at least one other vehicle other than the vehicle, and if the driver's driving ability value does not meet the recommended driving ability value, generates information indicating the other vehicle that meets the recommended driving ability value for the other vehicle, and outputs the information indicating the other vehicle. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the aspects (1), (10), (12) and (14), it is possible to perform an evaluation based on daily driving data such as driving data during elderly driving training courses, and it is possible to determine the driving ability of the vehicle driver without interfering with driving, and it is possible to present more appropriate alternative means of transportation to the driver and the driver's family, etc.

[0022] According to the aspect (2), it is possible to present public transportation as an alternative means of transportation, and alternative means of transportation that do not require the driver to drive can be presented, thereby helping the driver to travel more safely.

[0023] According to the aspect (3), it is possible to present a comparison of the maintenance costs incurred by the driver of the vehicle he or she drives with the costs that would be incurred if the driver were to decide to use an alternative means of transportation, making it easier for the driver to decide to surrender his or her license.

[0024] According to the aspect (4), it is possible to determine the driver's driving ability by excluding steering information from high-load sections where driving skill has a large influence on steering error, and it is possible to accurately calculate the α value that represents the driver's steering error under normal conditions.

[0025] According to the aspect (5), it is possible to determine the driver's driving ability by excluding steering information from the steering information of high-load sections including at least one of S-curve sections, crank sections, and parking sections, where the influence of driving skill on steering error is large, and it is possible to accurately calculate the α value representing the driver's steering error under normal conditions.

[0026] According to the aspect (6), it is possible to calculate the driver's driving ability value based on the steering information of the section where the cognitive function has a large influence on the steering error, and it is possible to accurately calculate the Hp value which represents the steering error of the driver when the cognitive load is greater than that in the normal state.

[0027] According to the aspect (7), it is possible to calculate the driver's driving ability value based on the steering information in the right-turn section, where the cognitive function has a large influence on steering fluctuations, and it is possible to accurately calculate the Hp value, which represents the driver's steering fluctuations when cognitive load is applied compared to normal conditions.

[0028] According to the aspects (8), (11), (13) and (15), it is possible to perform an evaluation based on daily driving data such as driving data during senior driving training courses, so that the driving ability of the driver of the vehicle can be determined without interfering with driving, and other vehicle models that are suitable for the driver's driving ability can be presented to the driver himself / herself and the driver's family, etc.

[0029] According to the aspect (9), when the driver's driving ability value does not meet the recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle, an attempt is made to extract other vehicle models that are associated with recommended driving ability values ​​that are also met by the driver's driving ability value, and if no such vehicle model exists, alternative means of transportation can be presented, making it possible to more flexibly present alternative means of transportation to the driver himself and the driver's family, etc. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a traveling section and a driving load. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a main part of an information providing system 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of fluctuation in steering angle θ of a vehicle. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a degree display of the degree of steering shake. [Figure 5] 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a substitute information generating unit 18 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 6] 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a storage unit 12 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7] 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of recommended Hp value information 122 in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 8] 3 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of processing by a calculation unit 11 of an information providing system 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a substitute information generating unit 18a according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing by a calculation unit 11 of an information providing system 10 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of processing by a calculation unit 11 of an information providing system 10 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of an information providing device, an information providing system, an information providing method, and a program according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0032] First Embodiment A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 8. An information provision system 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention determines the driving ability of a vehicle driver and presents more appropriate alternative means of transportation according to the determination result.

[0033] Generally, a driver's driving behavior is composed of three elements: cognition, judgment, and operation. Of these elements, cognitive abilities, which are the intellectual functions related to cognition and judgment, are known to gradually decline with age. As cognitive abilities decline, it becomes more difficult to drive a vehicle safely.

[0034] Therefore, in this embodiment, the information provision system is configured as follows to determine the driving ability, particularly the driving ability related to cognitive function, based on driving data when the driver drives the vehicle, and to support the driver and their family in traveling safely by understanding the tendency of cognitive function to decline and more appropriate alternative means of transportation.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining driving sections and driving load. As shown in FIG. 1, driving sections on which a vehicle travels can be classified into no-load sections, such as straight sections where the driver experiences almost no driving load due to driving behavior; high-load sections, such as S-curve sections, crank sections, and parking sections where the driver experiences a high driving load; and low-load sections, which are intermediate sections. More specifically, no-load sections are driving sections where the driver is required to make few steering movements per vehicle travel distance and the vehicle's driving trajectory has a simple shape. High-load sections are driving sections where the driver is required to make many steering movements per vehicle travel distance and the vehicle's driving trajectory has a complex shape. In such high-load sections, high driving skills are required, such as frequent steering, steering operation in coordination with accelerator and brake operations, and vehicle sense. In other words, the driver's driving skills have a significant impact on the stability of driving in high-load sections.

[0036] Low-stress sections include driving sections such as right curves, left curves, lane changes, right turns, and left turns. Among these low-stress sections, in sections where the vehicle changes direction by crossing the oncoming lane at an intersection (right-turn sections in countries and regions where vehicles drive on the left side, and left-turn sections in countries and regions where vehicles drive on the right side; hereinafter simply referred to as "right-turn sections"), in order for the driver to recognize the target trajectory of the vehicle, it is necessary to grasp the situation of the oncoming lane ahead while also grasping the situation of the lane ahead after the right turn. In this case, the driver's line of sight shifts between the oncoming lane ahead and the lane ahead after the right turn, increasing the driver's mental activity and increasing the driving load, particularly the cognitive load related to cognition, compared to other low-stress sections. For this reason, the driver's cognitive function has a significant impact on driving stability in right-turn sections. By evaluating driving stability based on driving data from such right-turn sections, it is possible to determine the driver's driving ability related to cognitive function.

[0037] In addition to right-turn sections, driving sections in which a driver's cognitive function affects driving stability include, for example, sections with many signs and on-coming traffic, sections where eye movement is set to be more frequent than a predetermined amount, sections with traffic lights, sections where pedestrians are set to be more frequent than a predetermined amount, such as in busy areas, sections where blind spots during driving are set to be more frequent than a predetermined amount, such as intersections with poor visibility, and sections where multiple roads intersect. Therefore, by acquiring driving data for such sections in a manner that allows them to be distinguished from other sections and evaluating driving stability based on that driving data, it is also possible to determine the driving ability related to the driver's cognitive function. When time-series location information is acquired in addition to vehicle driving data, a predetermined specific driving section can be identified based on the location information.

[0038] [Configuration of information provision system] 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the main parts of an information providing system 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the information providing system 10 includes a computer having a calculation unit 11 such as a CPU, a storage unit 12 such as a ROM and a RAM, and peripheral circuits therefor.

[0039] The calculation unit 11 has, as its functional configuration, an information acquisition unit 13, a zone determination unit 14, an α value calculation unit 15, an Hp value calculation unit 16, a cognitive function evaluation unit 17, an alternative information generation unit 18, and an information output unit 19. The storage unit 12 stores information such as programs executed by the calculation unit 11 and setting values. The information provision system 10 may be configured as an in-vehicle device mounted on the vehicle, or as a server device or the like provided outside the vehicle. Alternatively, the information provision system 10 may be configured such that some functions are located in the in-vehicle device and the other functions are distributed in a server device or the like. Furthermore, the information output unit 19 may be configured as, for example, a user terminal (e.g., a smartphone, tablet terminal, PC, etc.) used by the driver or the driver's family, a screen mounted on the vehicle, a digital signage, or other device.

[0040] The information acquisition unit 13 acquires driving data of the vehicle for each driver. For example, driving data measured during the elderly driver training course in a vehicle dedicated to the elderly driver training course, or driving data measured in a vehicle that the driver regularly drives, is acquired. The driving data includes at least information indicating the steering angle θ of the vehicle over time. The driving data may also include time-series location information. In addition to the driving data during the elderly driver training course, the information acquisition unit 13 may also acquire information regarding the results of a cognitive function test during the elderly driver training course.

[0041] The driving data may also include information indicating the classification of the vehicle used in the measurement. The classification of the vehicle here refers to the type of vehicle, such as a standard car, a compact car, a light car, etc., or the vehicle model. Hereinafter, such vehicle classifications will be collectively referred to as "vehicle model."

[0042] The section determination unit 14 determines the driving section based on the driving data acquired by the information acquisition unit 13. More specifically, based on the time change in the steering angle θ, it determines whether the driving section per unit time is a first driving section other than the high load section (FIG. 1) or a second driving section corresponding to the high load section, and also determines whether it is a right turn section within the first driving section. The section determination unit 14 may determine the driving section per unit time based on the time change in the position information. Note that if the information acquisition unit 13 acquires driving data for each driving section, the section determination unit 14 does not need to determine the driving section.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of fluctuations in the steering angle θ of a vehicle. When the vehicle is being driven stably, the steering is performed smoothly without any shaking, resulting in small fluctuations in the steering angle θ. On the other hand, when the driving is unstable, the steering becomes shaky and the fluctuations in the steering angle θ become large. The α value calculation unit 15 calculates an α value, which is an evaluation value representing the characteristics of the steering by the vehicle driver, based on the driving data of the first driving section acquired by the information acquisition unit 13 (for example, driving data of the entire section).

[0044] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, a predicted steering angle θp(n) at time n is calculated by second-order Taylor expansion centered on time (n-1) based on the actual steering angles θ(n-3), θ(n-2), and θ(n-1) at time points n-3, n-2, and n-1 immediately preceding the specific time point n. Since the predicted steering angle θp(n) is an estimated value assuming smooth steering, if the actual steering is smooth, it will match the actual steering angle θ(n), but if the actual steering is unstable, it will deviate from the actual steering angle θ(n) depending on the degree of the unstable steering. The degree of such unstable steering can be expressed as a prediction error e(n) calculated by the following equation (i):

[0045] e(n)=θ(n)-θp(n) (i)

[0046] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frequency display of the degree of steering error, showing an example of the frequency display of the prediction error e(n). The α-value calculation unit 15 calculates the predicted steering angle θp(n) and the prediction error e(n) at each time point n based on the driving data of the first driving section, and then calculates the 90th percentile value (α-value) of the frequency distribution of the prediction error e(n) as shown by the solid line in FIG. 4. The smoother the steering and the less the steering error, the sharper the frequency distribution of the prediction error e(n) will be centered around "0°," where there is no steering error, and the smaller the α-value will be. On the other hand, the more the steering error is, the broader the frequency distribution of the prediction error e(n) will be and the larger the α-value will be. By using the driving data of the first driving section, excluding the second driving section, where there is a lot of steering and where driving skill has a significant impact on steering error, the α-value, which represents the driver's steering error under normal conditions, can be appropriately calculated.

[0047] The Hp value calculation unit 16 calculates the Hp value, which represents the steering characteristics of the vehicle driver, based on the α value calculated by the α value calculation unit 15 and the driving data of the right-turn section as a predetermined section of the first driving section used to calculate the α value. More specifically, after calculating the predicted steering angle θp(n) and prediction error e(n) at each time point n based on the driving data of the right-turn section, the frequency distribution of the prediction error e(n) as shown by the dashed line in Fig. 4 is divided into nine ranges P1 to P9 based on the α value. That is, based on eight reference values ​​-5α, -2.5α, -α, -0.5α, 0.5α, α, 2.5α, and 5α, the system is divided into nine ranges: P1 (up to -5α), P2 (-5α to -2.5α), P3 (-2.5α to -α), P4 (-α to -0.5α), P5 (-0.5α to 0.5α), P6 (0.5α to α), P7 (α to 2.5α), P8 (2.5α to 5α), and P9 (5α or higher). Then, based on the proportions p1 to p9 of each range P1 to P9, the steering entropy value (Hp value) is calculated using the following formula (ii).

[0048] Hp=-Σpi·log9pi ···(ii)

[0049] The Hp value represents the smoothness of steering, and the smaller the steering error and the sharper the frequency distribution of the prediction error e(n), the smaller the value, and the larger the steering error and the broader the frequency distribution of the prediction error e(n).By using driving data from a right-turn section where there is a lot of eye movement and the cognitive function is greatly affected by steering error, it is possible to appropriately calculate the Hp value, which represents the driver's steering error when there is a cognitive load compared to normal conditions.

[0050] The Hp value calculation unit 16 may correct the Hp value based on information indicating the vehicle type included in the driving data. Even when the same driver steers, the calculated Hp value may differ depending on the vehicle type. This is because, for example, the difficulty of steering differs depending on the vehicle type. Therefore, the Hp value calculation unit 16 may correct the Hp value using, for example, a predetermined reference value so that the calculated Hp value becomes the Hp value when steering a reference vehicle type.

[0051] The cognitive function evaluation unit 17 evaluates the cognitive function of the vehicle driver based on the Hp value calculated by the Hp value calculation unit 16. That is, by continuously monitoring the Hp value, which indicates steering error under cognitive load, it is possible to evaluate the driver's tendency toward decline in cognitive function. For example, if the Hp value calculated for each senior citizen training session based on driving data from a periodic senior citizen training session shows an increasing tendency, it is evaluated that the driver's cognitive function is tending to decline. The score of the cognitive function test in the senior citizen training session may also be taken into consideration. A similar evaluation may also be performed based on the Hp value calculated periodically based on driving data from daily driving.

[0052] The alternative information generation unit 18 determines the driving ability of the vehicle driver and presents a more appropriate alternative means of transportation according to the determination result. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the alternative information generation unit 18 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 5, the alternative information generation unit 18 includes an alternative necessity determination unit 181, an alternative route information acquisition unit 182, a maintenance cost information acquisition unit 183, and a transportation means comparison unit 184.

[0053] The substitution necessity determination unit 181 acquires a recommended Hp value associated with the vehicle model used in the measurement. The recommended Hp value is a predetermined Hp value for each vehicle model that is recommended for safe vehicle driving. The substitution necessity determination unit 181 determines whether the Hp value calculated by the Hp value calculation unit 16 satisfies the recommended Hp value. Specifically, for example, the substitution necessity determination unit 181 determines whether the Hp value≦the recommended Hp value is satisfied.

[0054] The alternative route information acquisition unit 182 acquires alternative route information when the alternative necessity determination unit 181 determines that the Hp value calculated by the Hp value calculation unit 16 does not satisfy the recommended Hp value. The alternative route information is information about a route (hereinafter referred to as an "alternative route") when traveling using another means of transportation on a section from the departure point to the destination of a past travel route based on the travel history of the vehicle used for measurement. The other means of transportation here refers to public transportation such as trains and buses. The alternative route information includes information indicating the cost (e.g., fare) required when using the alternative route. The alternative route information may also include information indicating the required time when using the alternative route.

[0055] The maintenance cost information acquisition unit 183 acquires information (hereinafter referred to as "maintenance cost information") indicating the maintenance cost (for example, the average maintenance cost per month) of the vehicle used for measurement based on the driving history of the vehicle. Maintenance costs include, for example, fuel costs (gasoline and electricity costs) and tolls on toll roads. Maintenance costs may further include vehicle inspection fees, maintenance costs, and tax amounts.

[0056] The transportation means comparison unit 184 acquires the alternative route information acquired by the alternative route information acquisition unit 182 and the maintenance cost information acquired by the maintenance cost information acquisition unit 183. The transportation means comparison unit 184 compares the cost of using an alternative route based on the alternative route information with the cost of using the current vehicle based on the maintenance cost information. Based on the comparison result, the transportation means comparison unit 184 identifies an alternative transportation means that is more appropriate for the driver. The transportation means comparison unit 184 generates alternative information indicating the identified alternative transportation means.

[0057] The alternative information may include information regarding all routes that are candidates for alternative routes, information showing the results of the cost comparison itself, and information showing the results of a comparison between the time required to travel using the alternative route and the time required to travel using the current vehicle.

[0058] The information output unit 19 displays the alternative information generated by the transportation means comparison unit 184, for example, on a user terminal (e.g., a smartphone, tablet terminal, or PC) used by the driver or the driver's family, a screen installed in the vehicle, or digital signage. The information output unit 19 may be configured to display the alternative information on a screen via an elderly care application installed on the smartphone of the driver's family. The information output unit 19 may transmit the alternative information to an external device via a communication network instead of displaying the alternative information on a screen. For example, the information output unit 19 may attach the alternative information to an email and send it to the email address of the driver or the driver's family.

[0059] The information output unit 19 may further transmit the evaluation result of the driver's driving ability by the cognitive function evaluation unit 17 to a user terminal of the driver himself / herself, the driver's family, or the like. For example, a notification can be sent to a pre-registered email address. In this case, the notification can prompt the driver himself / herself or the driver's family, etc., to consider returning their driver's license or switching to a vehicle with enhanced driving assistance functions. Because objective information based on driving data is provided, the driver himself / herself can easily accept the current state of his / her cognitive function and can consider appropriate measures early on.

[0060] Note that the above-mentioned calculation unit 11 is an example of an information generation unit, the information acquisition unit 13 is an example of an acquisition unit, the alpha value calculation unit 15 is an example of a calculation unit, the alternative information generation unit 18 is an example of a generation unit, and the information output unit 19 is an example of an output unit and an information output unit.

[0061] Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the storage unit 12 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 6, the storage unit 12 stores at least steering angle information 121, recommended Hp value information 122, reference value information 123, driving history information 124, and maintenance cost information 125.

[0062] The steering angle information 121 is information indicating the steering angle θ of the vehicle in time series included in the above-mentioned traveling data. Note that the traveling data itself may be stored in the storage unit 12 instead of the information indicating the steering angle θ of the vehicle in time series. Note that the steering angle information 121 is an example of steering information.

[0063] The recommended Hp value information 122 is a list of predetermined Hp values ​​recommended for safe vehicle driving for each vehicle type. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the recommended Hp value information 122 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7, the recommended Hp value information 122 is a table in which vehicle types are associated with recommended Hp values. For example, a recommended Hp of "0.48" is associated with a vehicle type called "Vehicle Type A," and a recommended Hp of "0.56" is associated with a vehicle type called "Vehicle Type E."

[0064] As mentioned above, the smaller the Hp value, the smoother the steering. Therefore, "Vehicle Type A" is a vehicle type that can be recommended to drivers who can steer more smoothly (i.e., have higher driving stress) than "Vehicle Type E." For example, light cars, compact cars, and vehicles with high vehicle heights have relatively high recommended Hp values, while standard cars, large cars, and vehicles with low vehicle heights have relatively high driving skills and therefore have low recommended Hp values.

[0065] The reference value information 123 is a coefficient for converting the calculated Hp value into an Hp value that is independent of the vehicle type. As described above, even if the same driver performs the steering, the calculated Hp value may differ depending on the vehicle type. Therefore, the reference value information 123 is a coefficient for correcting the Hp value so that it becomes the Hp value when the Hp value calculation unit 16 steers, for example, a reference vehicle type.

[0066] The driving history information 124 is information about the past driving routes of the driver's vehicle. The driving history information 124 includes, for example, information such as the departure point, destination, driving route, required time, and fuel consumption of the past driving route.

[0067] Maintenance cost information 125 is information indicating the maintenance costs incurred for the driver's vehicle (for example, the average maintenance cost per month). Maintenance costs include, for example, fuel costs (gasoline, electricity, etc.), tolls on toll roads, vehicle inspection fees, maintenance costs, and tax amounts. Fuel costs may be calculated from the actual fees paid, or may be calculated based on the mileage and average fuel efficiency.

[0068] [Processing flow by the calculation unit] 8 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing by the calculation unit 11 of the information provision system 10 in the first embodiment of the present invention. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed, for example, every time driving data during a senior citizen training course or driving data measured in a vehicle that the driver drives on a daily basis is input to the information provision system 10.

[0069] First, the information acquisition unit 13 acquires time-series vehicle travel data (step S1). Next, the section determination unit 14 determines the travel section for each unit time based on the travel data acquired by the information acquisition unit 13. More specifically, the section determination unit 14 determines whether the travel section for each unit time is a first travel section other than a high-load section or a second travel section corresponding to a high-load section based on the time change of the steering angle θ, and also determines whether it is a right-turn section within the first travel section (step S2).

[0070] Next, the α value calculation unit 15 excludes driving data for a period determined to be a high-load section (second driving section) where steering is frequent and steering fluctuations are significantly affected by driving skill (step S3). The α value calculation unit 15 calculates an α value, which is an evaluation value representing the steering characteristics of the vehicle driver, based on the driving data for the first driving section (e.g., driving data for the entire section) acquired by the information acquisition unit 13 (step S4). More specifically, the α value calculation unit 15 calculates a predicted steering angle θp(n) and a prediction error e(n) for each time point n based on the driving data for the first driving section, and then calculates the 90th percentile value (α value) in the frequency distribution of the prediction error e(n). The α value calculation unit 15 stores the calculated α value in the storage unit 12.

[0071] Next, the Hp value calculation unit 16 extracts the driving data for the period determined to be a right-turn section acquired by the information acquisition unit 13 (step S5). Next, the Hp value calculation unit 16 calculates the Hp value, which represents the steering characteristics of the vehicle driver, based on the α value calculated by the α value calculation unit 15 and the driving data for the right-turn section, which is the predetermined section of the first driving section used to calculate the α value (step S6). More specifically, the Hp value calculation unit 16 calculates the predicted steering angle θp(n) and the prediction error e(n) at each time point n based on the driving data for the right-turn section, and then divides the frequency distribution of the prediction error e(n) into nine ranges P1 to P9 based on the α value. The Hp value calculation unit 16 calculates the steering entropy value (Hp value) based on the proportions p1 to p9 of each range P1 to P9. The Hp value calculation unit 16 stores the calculated Hp value in the storage unit 12.

[0072] Next, the substitution necessity determination unit 181 acquires a recommended Hp value associated with the vehicle model used in the measurement (step S7). As described above, the recommended Hp value is a predetermined Hp value for each vehicle model that is recommended for safe vehicle driving. Next, the substitution necessity determination unit 181 determines whether the Hp value calculated by the Hp value calculation unit 16 satisfies the recommended Hp value (for example, whether the Hp value is less than or equal to the recommended Hp value) (step S8). If the substitution necessity determination unit 181 determines that the Hp value calculated by the Hp value calculation unit 16 satisfies the recommended Hp value, the processing by the calculation unit 11 of the information provision system 10 shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8 ends.

[0073] If the alternative necessity determination unit 181 determines that the Hp value calculated by the Hp value calculation unit 16 does not satisfy the recommended Hp value, the alternative route information acquisition unit 182 acquires alternative route information (step S9). As described above, the alternative route information is information about an alternative route, which is a route when traveling using another means of transportation along a section from the departure point to the destination of a past travel route based on the travel history of the vehicle used for measurement. The alternative route information includes information indicating the cost required to use the alternative route.

[0074] Next, the maintenance cost information acquisition unit 183 acquires maintenance cost information indicating the maintenance cost (for example, average maintenance cost per month) incurred for the vehicle used in the measurement based on the driving history of the vehicle (step S10). As described above, maintenance costs include, for example, fuel costs and toll road fees. Next, the transportation means comparison unit 184 acquires the alternative route information acquired by the alternative route information acquisition unit 182 and the maintenance cost information acquired by the maintenance cost information acquisition unit 183. The transportation means comparison unit 184 compares the cost of using an alternative route by an alternative transportation means based on the alternative route information with the cost of using the current vehicle as is based on the maintenance cost information (step S11).

[0075] Next, the information output unit 19 outputs the comparison result (step S12). The transportation means comparison unit 184 may further identify an alternative transportation means more suitable for the driver based on the comparison result, and generate alternative information indicating the identified alternative transportation means. The information output unit 19 may then display the alternative information generated by the transportation means comparison unit 184, for example, on a user terminal used by the driver or the driver's family, a screen installed in the vehicle, or digital signage. This completes the processing by the calculation unit 11 of the information provision system 10 shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8.

[0076] As described above, the information provision system 10 in the first embodiment performs an evaluation based on daily driving data, such as driving data from an elderly driver's driving course, and can therefore determine the driver's driving ability without interfering with driving (step S1). Furthermore, the information provision system 10 can accurately calculate the α value, which represents the driver's steering error under normal conditions, by excluding high-stress sections where driving skill has a large effect on steering error (steps S2 to S4). Furthermore, the information provision system 10 can accurately calculate the Hp value, which represents the driver's steering error under conditions of higher cognitive load than under normal conditions, by using driving data from sections where cognitive function has a large effect on steering error (steps S2, S5 to S6). Furthermore, the information provision system 10 automatically evaluates the driver's cognitive function based on the driving data, and notifies the driver and the driver's family of the results of a comparison between the costs of using an alternative route by an alternative means of transportation and the costs of using the current vehicle, as well as information about alternative means of transportation that are more appropriate for the driver. Therefore, the information providing system 10 can prevent traffic accidents caused by vehicles driven by elderly people, and can also reduce the burden on family members who live far away from the elderly driver to keep an eye on them (steps S1 to S12).

[0077] The information provision system 10 described above includes an information acquisition unit 13 that acquires steering information regarding steering by the driver of the vehicle, an Hp value calculation unit 16 that calculates the driver's Hp value (driving ability value) based on the steering information, an alternative information generation unit 18 that acquires a recommended Hp value (recommended driving ability value) associated with the vehicle and generates alternative information (alternative transportation means information) indicating alternative transportation means if the driver's Hp value is lower than the recommended Hp value, and an information output unit 19 that outputs the alternative information.As a result, it is possible to evaluate driving ability without placing a burden on the driver and present more appropriate alternative transportation means, and it is possible to support the driver and their family in traveling safely by understanding the tendency of cognitive function to decline and more appropriate alternative transportation means.

[0078] <Second embodiment> A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figs. 9 and 10. An information provision system 10 according to the second embodiment of the present invention determines the driving ability of a driver of a vehicle, and presents other vehicles that are suitable for the driver's driving ability based on the determination result. In the second embodiment, as an example, the information provision system 10 presents vehicle models that are suitable for the driver's driving ability. As described above, the vehicle model refers to the type of vehicle, such as a standard vehicle, a compact vehicle, or a light vehicle, or a vehicle model.

[0079] [Configuration of information provision system] The main configuration of the information providing system 10 in the second embodiment is similar to the main configuration of the information providing system 10 in the first embodiment shown in Fig. 2, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. The information providing system 10 in the second embodiment differs in configuration from the information providing system 10 in the first embodiment in that the information providing system 10 in the second embodiment has an alternative information generating unit 18a instead of the alternative information generating unit 18. The configuration of the alternative information generating unit 18a will be described below.

[0080] The alternative information generating unit 18a determines the driving ability of the driver of the vehicle and, depending on the determination result, presents other vehicles that are suitable for the driver's driving ability. Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the alternative information generating unit 18a in the second embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 9, the alternative information generating unit 18 includes an alternative necessity determining unit 181 and a suitable vehicle model extracting unit 187.

[0081] The substitution necessity determination unit 181 acquires a recommended Hp value associated with the vehicle model used in the measurement. The recommended Hp value is a predetermined Hp value for each vehicle model that is recommended for safe vehicle driving. The substitution necessity determination unit 181 determines whether the Hp value calculated by the Hp value calculation unit 16 satisfies the recommended Hp value (for example, whether the Hp value is less than or equal to the recommended Hp value).

[0082] When substitution necessity determination unit 181 determines that the Hp value calculated by Hp value calculation unit 16 does not satisfy the recommended Hp value, compatible vehicle model extraction unit 187 refers to recommended Hp value information 122 stored in storage unit 12. Recommended Hp value information 122 is a table that associates vehicle models with recommended Hp values, such as that shown in the above-mentioned FIG. 7. Compatible vehicle model extraction unit 187 extracts vehicle models whose Hp values ​​calculated by Hp value calculation unit 16 satisfy the recommended Hp value, i.e., vehicle models that are compatible with the driver's driving ability.

[0083] For example, suppose the vehicle model driven by the driver is "Vehicle Model B," and the Hp value calculated by the Hp value calculation unit 16 is 0.51. In this case, as shown in FIG. 7, the recommended Hp associated with vehicle model B is 0.50, so Hp value > recommended Hp value, and the substitution necessity determination unit 181 determines that the calculated Hp value does not satisfy the recommended Hp value. In this case, the compatible vehicle model extraction unit 187 extracts, for example, the vehicle model associated with the calculated smallest recommended Hp value among the recommended Hp values ​​that satisfy the condition Hp value ≦ recommended Hp value. That is, in this case, the substitution necessity determination unit 181 extracts "Vehicle Model C," which is the vehicle model associated with the smallest recommended Hp value (0.52) among the recommended Hp values ​​that satisfy the condition 0.51 ≦ recommended Hp value.

[0084] The information indicating the vehicle type that is suitable for the driver's driving ability, extracted by the suitable vehicle type extraction unit 187, is output by the information output unit 19.

[0085] Note that the above-mentioned calculation unit 11 is an example of an information generation unit, the information acquisition unit 13 is an example of an acquisition unit, the α value calculation unit 15 is an example of a calculation unit, the alternative information generation unit 18a is an example of a generation unit, and the information output unit 19 is an example of an output unit and an information output unit.

[0086] [Processing flow by the calculation unit] 10 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing by the calculation unit 11 of the information provision system 10 in the second embodiment of the present invention. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed, for example, every time driving data during a senior citizen training course or driving data measured in a vehicle that the driver drives on a daily basis is input to the information provision system 10.

[0087] The processing from step S1 to step S8 shown in FIG. 10 is similar to the processing flow by the calculation unit 11 of the information providing system 10 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 8, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0088] If substitution necessity determination unit 181 determines that the Hp value calculated by Hp value calculation unit 16 does not satisfy the recommended Hp value, compatible vehicle model extraction unit 187 refers to recommended Hp value information 122 stored in storage unit 12. Compatible vehicle model extraction unit 187 extracts vehicle models whose Hp values ​​calculated by Hp value calculation unit 16 satisfy the recommended Hp value, that is, vehicle models that are suitable for the driver's driving ability (step S20).

[0089] Next, the information output unit 19 outputs an extraction result indicating the vehicle models extracted by the compatible vehicle model extraction unit 187 (step S21). The information output unit 19 may display the extraction result, for example, on a user terminal used by the driver or the driver's family, a screen mounted on the vehicle, or digital signage. This completes the processing by the calculation unit 11 of the information provision system 10 shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10.

[0090] As described above, the information provision system 10 in the second embodiment performs an evaluation based on daily driving data, such as driving data from an elderly driver's driving course, and is therefore able to determine the driver's driving ability without interfering with driving (step S1). Furthermore, the information provision system 10 can accurately calculate the α value, which represents the driver's steering error under normal conditions, by excluding high-stress sections where driving skill has a large effect on steering error (steps S2 to S4). Furthermore, the information provision system 10 can accurately calculate the Hp value, which represents the driver's steering error under conditions of greater cognitive load than under normal conditions, by using driving data from sections where cognitive function has a large effect on steering error (steps S2, S5 to S6). Furthermore, the information provision system 10 automatically evaluates the driver's cognitive function based on the driving data and notifies the driver and his or her family of the results of the extraction of vehicle models that are suitable for the driver's driving ability. Therefore, the information providing system 10 can prevent traffic accidents caused by vehicles driven by elderly people, and can also reduce the burden on family members who live far away from the elderly driver to keep an eye on them (steps S1 to S21).

[0091] According to the information provision system 10 described above, the information acquisition unit 13 acquires steering information regarding steering by the driver of the vehicle, the Hp value calculation unit 16 calculates the driver's Hp value (driving ability value) based on the steering information, the alternative information generation unit 18a acquires a recommended Hp value (recommended driving ability value) associated with the vehicle and a recommended Hp value of another vehicle (other vehicle recommended driving ability value) associated with at least one other vehicle other than the vehicle, and if the driver's Hp value is less than the recommended Hp value, generates information indicating another vehicle that satisfies the recommended Hp value of the other vehicle, and the information output unit 19 outputs information indicating the other vehicle. Therefore, the driving ability can be evaluated without placing a burden on the driver, and a vehicle model that is suitable for the driver's driving ability can be presented, and the driver and their family can be supported to travel safely by understanding the tendency of cognitive decline and the vehicle model that is suitable for the driver's driving ability.

[0092] <Third embodiment> A third embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to Fig. 11. An information provision system 10 according to the third embodiment of the present invention determines the driving ability of a vehicle driver and, depending on the determination result, attempts to extract other vehicle models that are suitable for the driver's driving ability. If other vehicle models that are suitable for the driver's driving ability are extracted, the information provision system 10 presents the extracted vehicle models. On the other hand, if other vehicle models that are suitable for the driver's driving ability are not extracted, the information provision system 10 presents more appropriate alternative means of transportation depending on the determination result of the vehicle driver's driving ability.

[0093] [Configuration of information provision system] The essential configuration of the information providing system 10 in the third embodiment is similar to the essential configuration of the information providing system 10 in the first embodiment shown in Fig. 2, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. The information providing system 10 in the third embodiment differs in configuration from the information providing system 10 in the first embodiment in that the information providing system 10 in the third embodiment has an alternative information generating unit 18b (not shown) instead of the alternative information generating unit 18. The configuration of the alternative information generating unit 18b will be described below.

[0094] The alternative information generation unit 18b in the third embodiment has the configuration of the alternative information generation unit 18 in the first embodiment shown in Fig. 5, and further has the compatible vehicle model extraction unit 187 of the alternative information generation unit 18a in the second embodiment shown in Fig. 8. That is, the alternative information generation unit 18b in the third embodiment has a configuration that combines the configuration of the alternative information generation unit 18 in the first embodiment shown in Fig. 5 and the configuration of the alternative information generation unit 18a in the second embodiment shown in Fig. 8.

[0095] For example, suppose the vehicle model driven by the driver is "vehicle model E," and the Hp value calculated by the Hp value calculation unit 16 is 0.57. In this case, as shown in FIG. 7, the recommended Hp associated with vehicle model E is 0.56, so the Hp value is greater than the recommended Hp value, and the substitution necessity determination unit 181 determines that the calculated Hp value does not satisfy the recommended Hp value. In this case, the compatible vehicle model extraction unit 187 attempts to extract a vehicle model associated with the calculated Hp value that is the smallest recommended Hp value among the recommended Hp values ​​that satisfy the relationship Hp value≦recommended Hp value.

[0096] However, in this example, as shown in Figure 7, even for "Vehicle E," which has the largest associated Hp value, the recommended Hp value is 0.56. Therefore, there is no vehicle model that satisfies the condition Hp value≦recommended Hp value, i.e., 0.57≦recommended Hp value. In this case, the alternative information generator 18 presents more appropriate alternative transportation means according to the results of the assessment of the driver's driving ability.

[0097] [Processing flow by the calculation unit] 11 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing by the calculation unit 11 of the information provision system 10 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed, for example, every time driving data during a senior citizen training course or driving data measured in a vehicle that is driven daily by a driver is input to the information provision system 10.

[0098] The processing from step S1 to step S8 shown in FIG. 10 is similar to the processing flow by the calculation unit 11 of the information providing system 10 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 8, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0099] If substitution necessity determination unit 181 determines that the Hp value calculated by Hp value calculation unit 16 does not satisfy the recommended Hp value, compatible vehicle model extraction unit 187 refers to recommended Hp value information 122 stored in storage unit 12. Compatible vehicle model extraction unit 187 attempts to extract a vehicle model whose Hp value calculated by Hp value calculation unit 16 satisfies the recommended Hp value, that is, a vehicle model that is suitable for the driver's driving ability (step S30).

[0100] If other vehicle models that are suitable for the driver's driving ability are extracted, the information output unit 19 outputs an extraction result indicating the vehicle models extracted by the suitable vehicle model extraction unit 187 (step S32). Note that the information output unit 19 may display the extraction result, for example, on a user terminal used by the driver or the driver's family, a screen mounted on the vehicle, or digital signage.

[0101] On the other hand, if no other vehicle type that matches the driver's driving ability is extracted, the alternative route information acquisition unit 182 acquires alternative route information (step S33). As described above, the alternative route information is information about an alternative route, which is a route when traveling using another means of transportation along a section from the departure point to the destination of a past travel route based on the travel history of the vehicle used in the measurement. The alternative route information includes information indicating the cost required to use the alternative route.

[0102] Next, the maintenance cost information acquisition unit 183 acquires maintenance cost information indicating the maintenance cost (for example, average maintenance cost per month) incurred for the vehicle used in the measurement based on the driving history of the vehicle (step S34). As described above, maintenance costs include, for example, fuel costs and toll road fees. Next, the transportation means comparison unit 184 acquires the alternative route information acquired by the alternative route information acquisition unit 182 and the maintenance cost information acquired by the maintenance cost information acquisition unit 183. The transportation means comparison unit 184 compares the cost of using an alternative route by an alternative transportation means based on the alternative route information with the cost of using the current vehicle as is based on the maintenance cost information (step S35).

[0103] Next, the information output unit 19 outputs the comparison result (step S36). The transportation means comparison unit 184 may further identify an alternative transportation means more suitable for the driver based on the comparison result, and generate alternative information indicating the identified alternative transportation means. The information output unit 19 may then display the alternative information generated by the transportation means comparison unit 184, for example, on a user terminal used by the driver or the driver's family, a screen installed in the vehicle, or digital signage. This completes the processing by the calculation unit 11 of the information provision system 10 shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11.

[0104] As described above, the information provision system 10 in the third embodiment performs an evaluation based on everyday driving data, such as driving data from an elderly driver training course, and can therefore determine the driving ability of a vehicle driver without interfering with driving (step S1). Furthermore, the information provision system 10 can accurately calculate the α value, which represents the driver's steering error under normal conditions, by excluding high-stress sections where driving skill has a large effect on steering error (steps S2 to S4). Furthermore, the information provision system 10 can accurately calculate the Hp value, which represents the driver's steering error under conditions of greater cognitive load than under normal conditions, by using driving data from sections where cognitive function has a large effect on steering error (steps S2, S5 to S6). Furthermore, the information provision system 10 automatically evaluates the driver's cognitive function based on the driving data, and notifies the driver and his / her family of the results of extracting a vehicle model that matches the driver's driving ability, and notifies the driver and his / her family of the results of comparing the cost of using an alternative route by an alternative means of transportation with the cost of using the current vehicle as is, and information about an alternative means of transportation that is more appropriate for the driver. Therefore, the information provision system 10 can prevent traffic accidents caused by vehicles driven by elderly people and reduce the burden on family members who live far away from the elderly driver (steps S1 to S36).

[0105] The information providing system 10 described above includes an information acquiring unit 13 that acquires steering information related to steering by the driver of the vehicle, an Hp value calculating unit 16 that calculates the driver's Hp value (driving ability value) based on the steering information, an alternative information generating unit 18 (18a) that acquires a recommended Hp value (recommended driving ability value) associated with the vehicle and a recommended Hp value of at least one other vehicle (other vehicle recommended driving ability value) associated with the vehicle, and if the driver's Hp value is lower than the recommended Hp value, generates information indicating the other vehicle if there is another vehicle that satisfies the recommended Hp value of the other vehicle, or generates alternative information (alternative transportation means information) indicating an alternative transportation means if there is no other vehicle that satisfies the recommended Hp value of the other vehicle, and an information output unit 19 that outputs the alternative information. Therefore, the system can evaluate the driver's driving ability without placing a burden on the driver, and can present a vehicle model that suits the driver's driving ability or a more appropriate alternative transportation means. This can help the driver and their family travel safely by understanding the tendency of cognitive decline and a vehicle model that suits the driver's driving ability or a more appropriate alternative transportation means.

[0106] In the above embodiment, an example is described in which the driving data of a specific driver is continuously monitored, but the method of determining the driving ability of a vehicle driver is not limited to this. For example, the driving ability related to cognitive function may be determined by comparing the driving data with a predetermined reference value, such as the average value of multiple drivers who have taken a senior driver training course.

[0107] The above-described embodiment can be expressed as follows. a storage device storing a program; a hardware processor; The hardware processor executes the program stored in the storage device, Acquire steering information regarding steering by a driver of a vehicle; Calculating a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; obtaining a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle, and generating alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means if the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value; Outputting the alternative transportation information The information providing device is configured as follows.

[0108] The above-described embodiment can be expressed as follows. a storage device storing a program; a hardware processor; The hardware processor executes the program stored in the storage device, Acquire steering information regarding steering by a driver of a vehicle; Calculating a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; obtain a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and a recommended driving ability value for another vehicle associated with at least one other vehicle other than the vehicle, and if the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value, generate information indicating the other vehicle that satisfies the recommended driving ability value for the other vehicle; outputting information indicating the other vehicle; The information providing device is configured as follows.

[0109] The above describes the form for carrying out the present invention using an embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment, and various modifications and substitutions can be made within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0110] 10...information provision system, 11...calculation unit, 12...memory unit, 13...information acquisition unit, 14...section determination unit, 15...alpha value calculation unit, 16...Hp value calculation unit, 17...cognitive function evaluation unit, 18, 18a, 18b...alternative information generation unit, 19...information output unit, 121...steering angle information, 122...recommended Hp value information, 123...reference value information, 124...driving history information, 125...maintenance cost information, 181...alternative necessity determination unit, 182...alternative route information acquisition unit, 183...maintenance cost information acquisition unit, 184...transportation means comparison unit, 187...compatible vehicle model extraction unit

Claims

1. A section determination unit that acquires driving data and determines, based on the driving data, whether a section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes direction of travel; an acquisition unit that acquires steering information related to steering by a driver of the vehicle in the section; a calculation unit that calculates a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle, and generates alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means when the driver's driving ability value is lower than the recommended driving ability value; an output unit that outputs the alternative transportation information; An information providing device comprising:

2. The alternative means of transportation is public transportation. The information providing device according to claim 1 .

3. An acquisition unit that acquires steering information regarding steering by a driver of a vehicle; a calculation unit that calculates a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle, and generates alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means when the driver's driving ability value is lower than the recommended driving ability value; an output unit that outputs the alternative transportation information; Equipped with The generation unit generates the alternative transportation means information based on a comparison result between information on the maintenance costs of the vehicle calculated based on the driving history of the vehicle and information on the costs of using the alternative transportation means. Information provision device.

4. The calculation unit excludes steering information of a section in which the steering shake is largely influenced by driving skill from the steering information. The information providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The section where the influence of driving skill is large includes at least one of an S-curve section, a crank section, and a parking section.

5. The information providing device according to claim 4.

6. The calculation unit calculates the driving ability value based on steering information of a section in which the steering shake has a large effect on cognitive function, among the steering information. The information providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The section where cognitive function is most affected is the right-turn section. The information providing device according to claim 6.

8. A section determination unit that acquires driving data and determines based on the driving data whether the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes direction of travel; an acquisition unit that acquires steering information related to steering by a driver of the vehicle in the section; a calculation unit that calculates a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and an other-vehicle recommended driving ability value associated with at least one other vehicle, and generates information indicating the other vehicle that satisfies the other-vehicle recommended driving ability value when the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value; an output unit that outputs information indicating the other vehicle; An information providing device comprising:

9. the generation unit generates alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means when there is no other vehicle that satisfies the other-vehicle recommended driving ability value; The output unit outputs the alternative transportation information. The information providing device according to claim 8.

10. An information providing system having an information generating unit and an information output unit, The information generation unit a section determination unit that acquires driving data and determines, based on the driving data, whether or not the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes its direction of travel; an acquisition unit that acquires steering information related to steering by a driver of the vehicle in the section; a calculation unit that calculates a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle, and generates alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means when the driver's driving ability value is lower than the recommended driving ability value; Equipped with The information output unit an output unit for outputting the alternative transportation information; An information provision system comprising:

11. An information providing system having an information generating unit and an information output unit, The information generation unit a section determination unit that acquires driving data and determines, based on the driving data, whether or not the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes its direction of travel; an acquisition unit that acquires steering information related to steering by a driver of the vehicle in the section; a calculation unit that calculates a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; a generation unit that acquires a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and an other-vehicle recommended driving ability value associated with at least one other vehicle, and generates information indicating the other vehicle that satisfies the other-vehicle recommended driving ability value when the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value; Equipped with The information output unit an output unit that outputs information indicating the other vehicle; An information provision system comprising:

12. The computer Acquire driving data, and determine based on the driving data whether or not the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes direction of travel; acquiring steering information relating to steering by a driver of the vehicle in the section; calculating a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; obtaining a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle, and generating alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means if the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value; Outputting the alternative transportation information Information provision method.

13. The computer Acquire driving data, and determine based on the driving data whether or not the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes direction of travel; acquiring steering information relating to steering by a driver of the vehicle in the section; calculating a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; acquire a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and a recommended driving ability value for another vehicle associated with at least one other vehicle other than the vehicle, and if the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value, generate information indicating the other vehicle that satisfies the recommended driving ability value for the other vehicle; outputting information indicating the other vehicle; Information provision method.

14. On the computer, Acquire driving data, and determine based on the driving data whether or not the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes direction of travel; acquiring steering information relating to steering by a driver of the vehicle in the section; calculating a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; obtain a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle, and if the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value, generate alternative transportation means information indicating an alternative transportation means; Output the alternative transportation information program.

15. On the computer, Acquire driving data, and determine based on the driving data whether or not the section is one in which the vehicle crosses an oncoming lane and changes direction of travel; acquiring steering information relating to steering by a driver of the vehicle in the section; calculating a driving ability value of the driver based on the steering information; acquire a recommended driving ability value associated with the vehicle and a recommended driving ability value for another vehicle associated with at least one other vehicle other than the vehicle, and if the driver's driving ability value is less than the recommended driving ability value, generate information indicating the other vehicle that satisfies the recommended driving ability value for the other vehicle; outputting information indicating the other vehicle; program.

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